Finding a lump on your child’s neck or head can feel alarming, especially if it appears suddenly or doesn’t go away after a few days. The good news is that in most cases, these lumps are benign (non-cancerous) and linked to common causes like infections or swollen lymph nodes.
Still, it’s important not to ignore them. ENT doctors often assess such lumps to determine whether they need monitoring, further testing, or treatment. Here’s a closer look at how ENT specialists approach head and neck lumps in children, and what parents should know.
What Could That Lump Be?
There are several possible causes for head and neck lumps in children. Some of the more common ones include:
- Enlarged lymph nodes – usually caused by viral or bacterial infections
- Congenital cysts or sinuses – present from birth and may only become noticeable later
- Inflamed salivary glands – sometimes due to infection
- Lipomas or benign soft tissue growths – slow-growing, soft, and usually painless
- Abscesses – infections under the skin that may feel warm or tender
In rarer cases, lumps may be linked to conditions such as lymphoma, thyroid problems, or other tumours, which is why careful evaluation is important.
When to See a Doctor
Not every lump requires immediate intervention. But there are some signs that suggest a visit to an ENT specialist may be warranted:
- The lump lasts more than 2 weeks or seems to be getting larger
- It feels hard, fixed, or irregular in shape
- There is no obvious sign of infection (like a sore throat or cold)
- Your child has unexplained fever, weight loss, or night sweats
- The lump is recurrent or keeps coming back after treatment
Even if the lump appears small or painless, persistent or unusual features should be checked.
What ENT Doctors Look For
When evaluating a head or neck lump in a child, ENT doctors go through a careful and step-by-step process. This typically includes:
1. Medical History
The doctor will ask about when the lump appeared, how it has changed over time, and whether it is painful. They may also ask about any recent illnesses, infections, or family history.
2. Physical Examination
A hands-on examination helps determine the location, size, mobility, texture, and tenderness of the lump. This can offer clues about whether it’s likely to be infectious, congenital, or something else.
3. Imaging (if needed)
If more information is needed, your child may be referred for an ultrasound, X-ray, CT scan, or MRI. Ultrasound is often the first choice, as it’s non-invasive and safe for children.
4. Blood Tests
Sometimes, blood tests are requested to check for signs of infection or to evaluate immune-related conditions.
5. Fine Needle Aspiration or Biopsy
If a lump is persistent, large, or has features that require further investigation, a biopsy may be advised. This helps determine the nature of the tissue and guide treatment decisions. In most cases, it is a straightforward, low-risk procedure.
Ruling Out Serious Conditions
While most head and neck lumps in children are benign, ENT doctors are trained to rule out rare but serious causes early on. Early diagnosis and monitoring can make a significant difference in managing both simple and complex conditions.
If a lump turns out to be a sign of a more significant medical condition, prompt referral to the appropriate paediatric teams for further care can begin without delay.
Supporting Families Through Every Step
At Dr Lynne Lim Ear Nose Throat Head and Neck Surgery Centre, we take a careful and calm approach to evaluating head and neck lumps in children. Dr Lynne Lim, a Senior Consultant Ear Nose Throat – Head & Neck Surgeon, has extensive experience working with families to assess and manage these conditions with both medical and surgical options where needed.
The clinic offers in-house assessments, paediatric imaging guidance, and collaborative care with paediatricians, radiologists, and other specialists.
If you’ve noticed a lump on your child’s head or neck that hasn’t gone away, don’t hesitate to make an appointment. Early assessment can help provide clarity and peace of mind.
